Easy Steps to Prepare Delicious Spaghetti with Ground Meat for a Perfect Meal

How to Make Spaghetti with Mince A Simple Guide

Spaghetti with mince is a classic dish loved by many for its comforting flavors and heartiness. This dish blends perfectly cooked spaghetti noodles with rich, savory minced meat sauce, making it a perfect meal for family dinners, gatherings, or simply a cozy night in. In this article, we will take you through a step-by-step guide on how to create this delightful dish from scratch.

Ingredients

To prepare spaghetti with mince, you will need the following ingredients

- Spaghetti 400g (or more depending on servings) - Minced meat 500g (beef, pork, or a mixture) - Onion 1 large, finely chopped - Garlic 2-3 cloves, minced - Carrot 1 medium, diced (optional) - Celery 1 stalk, diced (optional) - Canned tomatoes 400g (crushed or diced) - Tomato paste 2 tablespoons - Olive oil 2 tablespoons - Dried oregano 1 teaspoon - Dried basil 1 teaspoon - Salt to taste - Pepper to taste - Parmesan cheese for serving (optional) - Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

1. Cook the Spaghetti Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent the spaghetti from sticking. Once cooked, drain the spaghetti, but reserve a small cup of pasta water for later use. Set the spaghetti aside.

2. Prepare the Sauce In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. If you're using carrot and celery, add them at this stage and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they soften.

3. Add Garlic and Minced Meat Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Increase the heat slightly, then add the minced meat. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat as it cooks, ensuring it browns evenly. Cook until the meat is well browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

4. Incorporate Tomatoes Once the meat is cooked, add the canned tomatoes and tomato paste to the skillet. Stir well to combine. Add the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Reduce the heat to low, allowing the sauce to simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes. This simmering allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

5. Combine Spaghetti and Sauce After simmering, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Then add the cooked spaghetti directly into the sauce, gently tossing to combine everything thoroughly. Allow the spaghetti to sit in the sauce for a minute or two so that it absorbs some of the flavors.

6. Serve Serve the spaghetti with mince hot from the skillet. If desired, top each serving with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for an extra touch of flavor and presentation. A piece of crusty bread on the side can also complement this dish beautifully.

Tips and Variations

- Vegetarian Option For a vegetarian alternative, substitute minced meat with lentils or plant-based mince. Follow the same cooking instructions for the sauce. - Add Spice If you're a fan of heat, consider adding some red chili flakes or diced bell peppers to the sauce for an extra kick. - Meal Prep This dish is perfect for meal prep. Make a larger batch and store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days, or freeze for a later date.

Conclusion

Making spaghetti with mince is not only simple but also incredibly satisfying. It’s a dish that can be tailored to your tastes and dietary needs, making it a versatile option for any night of the week. Enjoy the process of cooking and the delicious meal that follows. Whether you’re feeding a family or just yourself, spaghetti with mince is sure to please!